Hair Tips

Our passion at ANTIDOTE is living in harmony with ourselves and our environment. This search for harmony drives every choice we make. We know that we don’t have to sacrifice the quality of our hair products to do this. But we do have to be thoughtful about how we do things. We have to consider the individual and the bigger picture with every decision we make. We all, as consumers, have a responsibility, too. We aren’t always given all the facts; sometimes we have to do a little digging to make sure that our actions are indeed low impact and good for our health.  We make our products with organic, high-quality ingredients that are good for people. We leave out the toxins. We leave out the stuff that will contaminate the water system. In their place are natural ingredients that support healthy hair without harming the planet.  You'll find goodies like aloe vera juice, shea butter, ginseng root, and chamomile.   Anyone working in this industry knows that this is no easy feat. The truth is that not everyone cares about sustainability. The hope is that the more we keep caring--and caring loudly--the more sense we can knock into the rest of the world.  This is our job: to keep caring, and to use our voices to tell people why we care. Because when enough people care, funding for research appears. New policies are formed. When we care, we can overcome amazing obstacles.  Sustainable packaging is an amazing obstacle (and opportunity). One of the most common questions we get is about our packaging. It’s a good one because it lets us know that our clients care just as much as we do. It lets us know that our community isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions. This is the kind of work we should all be doing as consumers! This question is also important because cutting back on plastic and other materials that don’t break down is vital to our survival. It simply doesn’t get more important than that.  Here’s what we have learned in our quest to be sustainable: lowering your environmental impact is not a marketing tactic. It’s not a buzzword. Sustainability is a lifestyle.  And packaging is a lesson that humanity is still grappling with. The short answer is: we don’t have a perfect solution to packaging. Yet. But those of us who care about eco-friendly beauty are working on it, trust us.  The long story is that we’re doing our best with the resources that we’re given. But at this point in the game, we can’t truly be sustainable without some effort from our clients. We need you to play an active role in this too, so together we can be good citizens of this earth.  Here’s what we know, what we’re doing to make a difference, and what we need from you to do it right.  It’s not just what’s on the inside that counts.  We want to give you the whole package--literally. We want our products to be good for you and safe for the environment. When it comes to hair care, there are four components that we need to look at. Here’s what packaging needs to do: It needs to protect the natural formula, especially from UV damage and moisture.  Packaging isn’t just about holding the product, it’s about preserving it too. Our products are natural, and we’re not kidding about that. We use the most gentle preservatives rather than the more resilient but toxic ones. The packaging needs to be strong but “inert”, meaning, the chemicals don’t leach out into your thoughtfully crafted shampoo, conditioner, or styler.  It needs to be easy for you to use.  The packaging needs to be easy to manipulate, carry, and ship to you without changing form. Compostable “plastic” is so exciting, but it will melt in the hot delivery truck on the way to your door. So it needs to be strong enough to withstand heat and heavy handling.  It must be safe for you to use. Our products are meant to be used in the bathroom, the shower, at the pool, or the beach. These are all places that you’re likely to be barefoot so we need shatter-proof packaging.  It must not be harmful to the environment.  We want to minimize our impact. We want to reuse, recycle, or compost. We all know that one of our biggest problems is how much trash we, as a species, generate. We don’t want to see our packages end up in landfills or the ocean.   As of right now, no material available does all four of these jobs perfectly. So brands like us who care about our environmental impact are left to weigh the pros and cons of what is available to us, and make the smartest decision.  That’s what we did, and it’s a process that we will continue to do. Our current solution to packaging is #1 PET plastic. #1 PET plastic is the best solution for us because it provides maximum protection for our formula and it’s safe and easy for you to use. Out of all the plastics (and aluminum), it has the lowest carbon footprint.  But part of the success of #1 PET requires some effort on your part as the consumer.  PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate (say that three times). It’s plastic, yes. But as the National Association for PET Container Resources says, not all plastics are made the same. PET keeps our natural products safe from UV damage and moisture, and it will make it safely to your door when you order it from us. It’s also lightweight and won’t shatter if you drop it.  PET bottles can be recycled over and over again; this is not true for other plastics. And most recycling programs in the US accept this material. Less energy is required to process PET than other materials. The Life Cycle Inventory Study reported in 2010 that “for every pound of recycled PET flake used, energy use is reduced by 84%; greenhouse gas emissions by 71%.”  Here’s where you come in.  Reduce, reuse, recycle.  Reducing our use of plastic where there are safe alternatives helps everyone - think shopping bags and water bottles for a start. When you do have to use plastic, and if you are into smaller containers like us, please re-use your bottles - wash them out well, and refill from larger bottles. When it does come time to toss your bottle, please recycle. PET is the plastic that can be recycled the most, but only 27.9% of it is actually being recycled in North America now.  We get that our recycling bin might be in another room or it’s easier to throw it out, but please take the extra time to sort your trash and recycle. In order to be truly sustainable, we need our clients to commit to recycling our packaging, so that ANTIDOTE never finds its way to a landfill or an ocean. There is so much opportunity here. We want to encourage our community to keep holding sustainable brands accountable. Keep asking the tough questions, keep having important conversations. The future is promising, but there’s more work to be done. Right now, environmental innovators are working to find new ways to improve the materials we do have and to find new, low-impact solutions. And brands who pride themselves on real sustainability are on the edge of our seats. We can’t wait to get on board with the future of sustainable packaging. In the meantime, we’re doing the best with the resources we have. We promise to do everything we can as we gain access to better materials and more insights from the scientific community. We hope that you’ll do everything in your power to make sure that our bottles get recycled. Together we can make it happen!     -- Abigail + David  

Do you want to grow your most beautiful hair ever? Understanding the role that hair follicles play in hair growth and overall health will help you tackle this issue at the root.  A healthy hair routine isn’t just about buying the right shampoo and conditioner or using the right drying method. Healthy hair starts from within. The food you eat and your lifestyle choices also play a role in whether your hair follicles are healthy and able to grow beautiful hair.  What are hair follicles? Hair follicles are tiny holes in your scalp from which your hair grows. They’re also found anywhere else on your body that hair is also present. Healthy hair follicles grow strong hair with a healthy texture.  Your hair follicles are made up of 2 parts: the papilla and the bulb.  The papilla delivers the blood supply to the hair follicle. The bulb, located at the bottom of the hair strand, contains the cells that grow the hair.  Out from the hair follicle grows the hair shaft. This is the part of the hair that is visible, what we know to be our roots. The hair shaft is made up of a protein called Keratin and an outer protective layer, the cuticle.   Your hair follicles also determine the color, type, and thickness of your hair.  If you’re having trouble with hair growth, your hair follicles may be damaged or just in need of some nourishment. This could be an indication of a nutritional deficiency, a symptom of an unrelated medical condition like stress, or you may just need to adjust your approach to hair care.  How do hair follicles work? Your hair strands are dead but your follicles are alive and they move through a cycle of 3 stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen.  These stages are also known as growth, death, and rest. Anagen: Growth. Lasts 2-7 years. The hair grows anywhere from 18-30 inches, depending on your genetics, age, or other health factors.  Catagen: Death. Lasts 2-3 weeks. The strand detaches from the papilla but remains in the hair follicle. Telogen: Rest. Lasts 3 months on average. New hair begins to grow. At the end of this phase, the older strand is shed.  It’s an interesting way to look at a life cycle. If allowed to rest after death, the hair cycle renews so that the hair follicle can grow new hair. If the hair follicle is damaged, it may not regrow hair.  Hair thinning or balding is an indication of possible damage. The average person has 100,000 hair follicles on their head, but our follicles don’t move through this life cycle in tandem. Instead, they stagger, with about 80-90% of follicles being in anagen - growth - at any given time.  Healthy hair means remaining in the growth phase (anagen) for as long as possible, and allowing adequate rest (telogen) when it’s time. Diet, hydration, organic products, and scalp massage all play a role in supporting healthy hair follicles.  How do hair follicles get damaged? Hair follicles are pretty tough but they can get damaged. Medical conditions, lifestyle choices, or toxic ingredients found in hair products can all damage them.  Here are some of the most common causes of hair follicle damage: Alopecia Areata - an autoimmune disorder that usually results in unpredictable, patchy hair loss affecting over 7 million people Scalp infection or Folliculitis (inflammation) - common skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed, usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection Smoking - nicotine can damage hair follicles during smoking, which not only affects the circulation of blood and hormones in the scalp, but also increases the secretion of androgen, which leads to hair loss Excessive alcohol consumption - heavy drinking may lead to situations, like nutritional deficiencies or hormonal issues, that can thin out your locks Lack of exercise - regular exercise increases general health and improved blood circulation in the body, and increased circulation stimulates growth in hair follicles Product build-up on the scalp - scalp buildup, if left untreated, can clog hair follicles and cause hair loss How can I have healthy hair follicles? There are plenty of things you can do to stimulate your hair follicles.  Stimulate blood flow to your follicles with a scalp massage, hair brushing, and exercise Eat well Shampoo right Stimulate blood flow to your follicles.   One of the most enjoyable ways of increasing blood flow to your follicles is a scalp massage. Scalp massages increase oxygen to the hair follicles which help the hair to grow. And it’s also relaxing. If you suspect that stress is contributing to your hair loss, then a scalp massage will provide more than one benefit.  Here’s how to do it: Using the pads of your fingers (not the nails), gently massage your scalp in small circles. Do one round at the front and top parts of your head, and then move your hands to the back of your head and repeat.  If you want to add even more benefits to the scalp massage, put a drop of oil on your fingers. There are so many affordable, accessible oils out there that deliver nutrients to your hair follicles. Some of them are: Jojoba seed oil Grape seed oil Avocado oil Coconut oil Grapefruit essential oil Rosemary essential oil Sandalwood essential oil  Brushing your hair is another way to massage and exfoliate your scalp. Be careful though, there are wrong ways to do it that end up undermining the work your hair follicles are doing. When you brush your hair, be sure to work out the knots starting at the end of your hair, and eventually making your way up to the root. Starting at the root and running the brush all the way to the ends could interrupt the cycle of your hair follicles by pulling strands out. And sometimes the force of the pull can damage the follicle itself.  Brushing your hair when it’s wet is another way to pull out hair and damage the follicle. Your strands are heavy and prone to snapping when it’s wet. So be sure to brush when your hair is relatively dry and start at the ends. Exercise also increases circulation.  A brisk walk will do the trick to get blood flowing through-out your body.  Don’t forget to take deep, full breaths to make sure you are getting lots of fresh oxygen. Eat well. Like they say, what you eat grows out of your head. Drink plenty of water to give your follicles their best shot. And eat a nutrient rich diet. Put good foods in your body and your hair follicles will receive them and deliver them to your hair.  Foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, iron, protein and zinc will feed your follicles. Eating these foods will keep you stocked with hair-healthy vitamins: Eggs Orange and yellow veggies and fruits Dark, leafy greens Whole grains Seeds and nuts Citrus fruits Broccoli, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower Fish oil Beans and lentils Lean meat and poultry If you don’t want to get too technical with your diet, just remember to be moderate in all things, and stay plant-focused. Avoid too much sugar, alcohol, and fried food.  Shampoo right. Last, shampoo properly by choosing a gentle cleanser.  You’re not degreasing your kitchen pipes here, so avoid harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. Embrace plant-based products that are rich in nutrients meant to soothe your skin, fortify your hair follicles, and encourage growth.  The way you shampoo matters, too.  Make sure your hair is saturated with water. This will allow the shampoo to lather and spread more evenly.  Start at your scalp and focus on your roots.  If you are using a gentle sulfate free shampoo like ANTIDOTE, you can let your shampoo sit on your scalp for one minute before rinsing. Now you know what hair follicles are, what they’re up to, and what you can do to support their work.  Remember, beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp. Our hair tells the story of what’s happening underneath the surface of our skin. Now we’d like to hear from you!  Did you learn something new? What health follicle tip will you start incorporating into your routine? Leave us a comment below. Abigail + David

Sunflowers are a powerhouse ingredient when it comes to hair care. Why does this matter to you? Sunflower seed extract softens and protects skin and adds shine and bounce to hair.  Our sunflower extract is high in oleic acid, is full of Omega 9 fats, and Vitamins E and K - the components that matter. One sunflower is actually made up of thousands of mini-flowers. It comes down to organic techniques and cold pressing.  Cold-pressed means that you get to keep more of what that make sunflower oil healthy, vitamins and phytosterols.  Cold-pressing also wastes less energy, since the seed temperature does not go over 110 degrees.  By being local, our sunflower oil also hasn’t traveled around the world before we put it into our products.  That makes fresher without creating un-necessary greenhouse gases. Cerified organic means that all of benefits of the sunflower comes without the downside of harmful chemicals and pesticides.           Sunflowers have deep local roots with the sunflower plant originating in North America. Native Americans living in the southwest, domesticated sunflowers to use the oil for cosmetic purposes – to protect and soothe skin, and as a hair conditioner. Native Americans expanded the sunflower's reach across the continent and eventually it became a cultivated crop in Wisconsin. You will find sunflower seed extract in ANTIDOTE 1848: Goldenseal Hair Protector   Sunflower Non-aerosol Hair Spray Malva Flex Hold Aerosol Hair Spray Volumizing Burdock Root Spray Wax   In the 1700’s, Europeans learned about the sunflower from Native Americans, and brought it back to Europe.  At first, the sunflower was an ornamental crop in Europe - remember Vincent Van Gogh’s famous sunflower paintings from the 1880’s.  (In 1987, one sold for a record $40 million.)       Planting will start in a few months - around mid-May - and it will it take about 2 weeks for plants to emerge. Sunflower’s get their name because they are phototropic – their leaves follow the sun's rays throughout the day.  Unlike the name implies, the sunflower head is actually made up of up to 2,000 individual flowers.  The yellow petals serve to advertise these to nearby pollinators.  Bees play a key role in increasing yields. Go bees! We hope you love sunflowers as much as we do! They are much more than a pretty face. - Abigail + David

Do you know how to tell if your shampoo is right for you? Do you know how to determine whether the ingredients on the back label are delivering the promises made on the front? If not, then this article is for you.   Here's a complete list of toxic ingredients found in shampoo that you want to avoid - plus some alternatives to look for. It’s up to us to make sure we’re avoiding toxic ingredients and only coming into contact with safe products. Why? Because US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval is not required for hair and beauty products. By law, companies can use any ingredients they choose as long as they put it on the label.  So whose responsibility is it to determine whether the ingredients in shampoo are safe or not? As of right now, it’s up to the companies who make the product to make that call. But we’re here to tell you that ultimately, it’s you.  Testing the safety of shampoo products is recommended by the FDA but not required. And manufacturers aren’t required to report safety information to the FDA.   That’s right: American beauty is a self-regulated industry.   There’s a big difference with the rest of the world where harmful ingredients are banned from use in cosmetic products.  Whereas the US has banned a few dozen ingredients, Canada has banned 500, and Europe has banned 1,300. For us and hopefully for you, this sets off a little alarm in our heads. We’re left wondering: do the companies I’m purchasing this shampoo from really care about my long term health? How can I determine that? If they do, do they have the resources to adequately determine what’s safe for me to put on my skin? After all, your skin is the largest organ on your body. And what you put on your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream - actually 64%! Don’t forget that your scalp is skin too. And in the steamy shower, whatever’s in your shampoo is being absorbed.  Even though ingredients that we don’t agree with are allowed into the marketplace, we can learn about these suspect chemicals and decide for ourselves whether or not we’d like to come into contact with them. We’ve created this guide of questionable chemicals to avoid for you. Pull it up on your phone the next time you’re shopping for hair products. Thankfully, there are many wonderful alternatives out there today.  Ingredients To Avoid In Your Shampoo Suspect #1: Parabens Parabens are preservatives that prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your shampoo. They’re suspected of disrupting hormone function and some studies have found parabens in tumors of women with breast cancer. Parabens have given preservatives a bad rep, along with others like DMDM hydantoin and imidazolidinyl. But all preservatives aren’t bad. After all, without them we’d have another health concern entirely. Natural preservatives at the right levels are safer but tend to be more expensive. Some safer preservatives to look out for are: Vitamin E - powerful antioxidant that keeps natural oils fresh Sorbic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid - natural preservatives safe enough to be commonly used in foods Phenoxyethanol - even approved in Europe, but should be below 1% of the formula   Suspect #2: Sulfates You’ve probably heard of the sulfate controversy. Sulfates are popular in personal products because they provide strong cleaning, lots of bubbles, and are very cheap.   Sulfate detergents are strong enough to keep oil and water mixed, and will remove oils from your skin, scalp, and hair.  Because they create large amounts of foam, we have learned to equate “clean” with bubbles.  If you’ve grown up loving that sudsy feeling of a shampoo, it can take a little time to adjust to a more natural shampoo.  While sudsy feels nice, it’s not really natural and works against your body. What’s really happening is you’re stripping your hair and scalp of all it’s natural oils. Problem is, that your scalp and hair need oils for  health, protection and resilience.  While you will feel squeaky clean, sulfates will cause your hair to dry out and become brittle.  This also sends a signal to your body that it needs to produce more oil to protect your scalp.  This over-production can lead to all sorts of scalp and follicle issues.  Remember, beautiful hair starts with happy follicles.  For most of us who color treat our hair, sulfates strip color from hair and further.  For added perspective, sulfates are also found in formulas used to clean garages and engines. They’re powerful de-greasers.  Sulfates will show up on your shampoo bottle label as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).   Good news is that there are plenty of alternatives!  Look for these better cleansers: sodium cocoamphoacetate - Gentle cleansing agent derived from coconut fatty acids decyl glucoside -  mild cleanser with good foam lauryl glucoside - for thicker cleansers sodium cocoyl glutamate - from coconut oil, corn and fruit sugars. sodium cocoyl glycinate - amino acid-derived cleansing agent and skin- softening ingredient in skin care and hair care products Suspect #3: Phthalates Many countries agree that phthalates are potential carcinogens. In the US, they’re included in the fragrance of many shampoos. But they’ve been linked to developmental and reproductive problems like endocrine disruption, early puberty in girls, and increased asthma in children.  Suspect #4: Synthetic Fragrances Our biggest qualm with synthetic fragrances is that the word “fragrance” is a cloud of mystery on your shampoo bottle. Manufacturers are legally allowed to use that word to represent an enormous list of unknown chemicals that they aren’t required to disclose. And phthalates are usually among them.  Look for companies that use specific essential oils to add scent to their products. More than often, these oils nourish your scalp in addition to smelling great.  Some oils that make an excellent addition to shampoo:  Grapefruit essential oil Cedarwood essential oil Sandalwood essential oil Sea Buckthorn essential oil Rosemary essential oil Suspect #5: Diethanolamine (DEA) and other related substances Diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA) are detergents that provide lather in your shampoo. These ingredients, also found in antifreeze and brake fluid, are harsh on the skin.  They have been restricted in Europe, California, and Canada because of possible carcinogenic effects. And the Danish Environmental Protection Agency classifies DEA as environmental pollutants that threaten aquatic life.  They’ve been flagged for being linked to developmental problems, reproductive issues, and allergies.  In other words, this is an ingredient you can live without.  Suspect #6: Isopropyl Alcohol When it comes to your hair, there’s good alcohol and there’s bad alcohol.   Isopropyl alcohol has a drying effect and is especially damaging to curly hair. It also contributes to frizz and takes moisture out of your hair.  There are many kinds of alcohol that you’ll find on your shampoo bottle and they’re not all bad. Some other drying, frizz-inducing alcohols to look out for are:  Ethyl Alcohol Ethanol Alcohol Propanol Alcohol On the other hand, some alcohols that actually add moisture and help to detangle are:  Cetyl Alcohol Cetearyl Alcohol Lauryl Alcohol Suspect #7: Triclosan If a product is labeled “antibacterial,” you’re likely to find triclosan on the ingredients list. It’s used as an antibacterial chemical in some shampoos. But the chemical is extremely controversial because it’s been linked to contributing to allergies, disrupting hormone function and the endocrine system. In 2016, Triclosan was banned from use in antibacterial liquid soap, but it remains in use in many other categories including toothpaste! What Ingredients Should You Look For? When shopping for shampoo, look for plant-based products. If you can read almost the entire list without having to turn to Google, then your product is probably manufactured with integrity and consideration for both you and the environment.  Ingredients like aloe vera, baobab, jojoba oil, shea butter, avocado oil, and vitamin E should be at the top of that list.  Buyer Beware:  Be Mindful When Shopping For All Beauty Products Remember that the laws and regulations of the FDA (or lack thereof) apply to the entire beauty industry. So use this knowledge when buying makeup, deodorant, lotion, nail polish, and other products.  Watch out for buzzwords that are slapped on the front of the label to catch your eye. Just because the label says “natural,” doesn’t mean that it is.  In the industry this practice is called “green washing”  - giving the impression that a brand is free of harmful ingredients when it isn’t. Buzzwords to look out for are: Organic Clean Green Safe Planet Love Nontoxic Coconut-based Eco-friendly  There’s hope!  You got this. By learning to read your product labels with the tips we shared above, you’ll be on your way to finding more healthy products for you and your family.  Products can be good for you, help you look good, and be good for our planet.  For those who are into the “consumer reports” type ratings, There are a several non-profit organizations that rank cosmetic products based on ingredients.  The most popular is the Environmental Working Group.  The Environmental Working Group’s mission to empower people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment brings breakthrough research and education together to drive consumer choice and civic action.  EWG’s Skin Deep® database is an online guide for cosmetics and personal care products. It was launched in 2004 to help people find safer products, with fewer ingredients that are hazardous or that haven’t been thoroughly assessed for safety.  Just enter or scan the brand you are interested in.  Arm yourself.  Knowledge is power. And with a little bit of knowledge and a thoughtful eye, you can become a powerful consumer. What are your favorite companies that manufacture their products with real environmental integrity?  Drop us a comment below to tell us about them! Abigail + David

Happy Winter!  The cold weather gives us good reason to snuggle up inside. It’s a time for indoor projects, reflecting on the past year, and sharing. Speaking of sharing...here are our TOP 6 hair-care secrets to keep your scalp and hair healthy and beautiful this season. Winter can be tough on your hair. Cold, dry weather takes a toll on your scalp just like it does the rest of your skin. And moving between the heat from indoors and the cold outside makes staying moisturized a legitimate challenge.  Not to mention the static and friction that comes from hats, scarves, and coats! During this season your hair is especially prone to breakage and frizz.  The biggest challenge is staying hydrated. Dry weather makes your scalp flaky and itchy. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “nope, it’s not snowing, that’s my scalp” then this guide is for you.  We put together our top winter-slaying tips so that you can protect your hair from damage and feel beautiful all season long. Think of this guide as a rulebook to live by this season - enjoy! Self-Care and Our Hair Winter can be stressful; we’re no stranger to its challenges here in Wisconsin. Staying indoors and shorter days means less Vitamin D.  And as beautiful as the holidays are, sometimes they’re downright exhausting.  Remember to do things that relax and rejuvenate you. The more self-care you can do this winter, the more resilient to stress you will be. This will improve your overall health, and it will be reflected in the shine and strength of your hair.  Self-care doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Sometimes it just means waking up early enough to have some alone time before you start your day. Or saying “no” to a social engagement that you know you won’t enjoy.  But there are also certain activities that you can do to make yourself feel good. And they’ll be different for everyone. The important thing is that you choose a few and stick to them.  We all know it, but it's good to remember that stress and hair are connected.  Learn more from US News here.  Here are some of our favorite self-care strategies.  Stress Eliminating Self-Care Strategies Strategy #1: Keep a Journal Journaling is a great way to get to know yourself better, work out why you feel certain feelings, or just have a place to put your thoughts. You can use prompts, questions, or put your pen to paper and write for ten minutes each day without stopping. Feeling stuck?  Check this out from SELF magazine. Strategy #2: Practice Yoga and Meditation Yoga and meditation do wonders for the mind and the body. Yoga helps to counter the physical toll that our lives have on our bodies and helps us to stay relaxed and open during cold months that make us tense our muscles. Meditation is calming, grounding, and consistent practice actually changes the structure of your brain. Both David and I mediate by taking a walk alone in nature, we know that others prefer quiet time.  Looking for an easy to get started?  Try Tree Bathing! Strategy #3: Carve Out Time For Friends Sometimes all you need is to spend time with a friend. It’s easy to get too busy for social time, but we have to remember that our social connections are an integral part of our health.  Take a walk outside if you can, or a quick FaceTime or Zoom call will brighten any day. Strategy #4: Read A Good Book We love getting lost in stories, but we also love reading insightful books about the things we’re interested in. Books help us to stay inspired, learn new things, and look at the world in a new way.  We love USAToday's list of best books to escape with. Strategy #5: Do a Random Act of Kindness We believe that what you put out into the world comes back to you.  Doing something nice for someone that you don't know feels great.  When it is unexpected, it changes the energy in the world.  Check out these ideas for inspiration. Of course we want you to look your best through all of this... So, here are ourTop Winter Hair Tips For 2020 Now that you’ve got your self-care plan, you’re ready to dive into some specific ways that you can counter the harsh conditions of winter. Here are our 6 tried-and-true tips.  Massage your scalp regularly. Remember, beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp. It all starts there, at the top of your head. And it really does feel good. You can add this to one of your self-care strategies. There are so many benefits of a scalp massage: Increases blood circulation to your hair follicles Promotes hair growth and thickness Removes dead skin cells from your scalp Prevents itching and encourages moisture by redistributing your natural oils Naturally relaxes you by increasing your serotonin             You can buy a massaging brush or do it the old-fashioned way: with your hands. If you choose to massage with your hands, be sure to use your finger pads rather than your nails.             Using small, circular motions, work your way all over your scalp. For added benefits, breathe deeply to increase the oxygen flow throughout your entire body.             You can even place a drop of natural hair oil on your fingers to soothe an irritated scalp. For the best results, do this for a few minutes each day.  Take turns giving your significant other a scalp massage. It’s a great way to unwind and connect.  Not convinced about scalp massage?  Don't take our word for it, see what the reporters at Healthline have to say here. Invest in a humidifier. Doctor recommended! Your humidifier is your best friend in winter! If you have a dry, flaky, or itchy scalp in the colder months, this is a must-have.  The cold, dry air of winter pulls necessary moisture out of your scalp. Humidifiers add moisture to the air and help prevent your scalp from drying out.  Get a small one for your bedroom and run it while you sleep. Your scalp will thank you!  Dry your hair before you leave the house.  We’ve all been told not to go out in the cold with wet hair. But did you know that it’s not only because you could become vulnerable to catching a cold? It also makes your hair prone to breakage. When you go outside, the water in your hair expands, forcing the hair shaft to expand as well. Freezing temperatures also freeze your hair strands, making it easy for them to break.  So to keep your hair strong and damage-free, you’ll want to dry your hair completely before you step outside.  Ditch products with harmful ingredients.  Toxic ingredients in your hair products aren’t doing you any good when it comes to building strength and encouraging hair growth and thickness. In a lot of cases, they’re inhibiting that by clogging up your pores. And they’re stripping your hair of its natural oils, making it harder to self-regulate.  Go for plant-based products that nourish your scalp and hair like our Winter Hair Bundle. Here’s what it includes: Chamomile Shampoo What’s in it: Aloe vera, chamomile flower, grapeseed oil, provitamin B5, vitamin E. What it does: Improves your scalp health without irritating it. Leaves your hair clean and healthy. How to use it: Brush dry hair before washing to stimulate blood flow to the scalp. Shake well. Work product through wet hair, rinse. Jojoba Hair Repair Conditioner What’s in it: Jojoba seed oil, shea butter, provitamin B5 and aloe vera. What it does: Repairs dry and damaged hair in less than 10 minutes. Leaves hair soft and smooth without silicones. Locks in moisture. Nourishes hair and scalp. How to use it: Apply to damp hair, comb through and rinse. For deeper conditioning, leave-in for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with cool water to lock in your color.  Avocado Styling Cream What’s in it: Avocado oil, aloe vera, shea butter, provitamin B5. What it does: Reduces frizz and smooths split ends. Conditions dry ends without weighing your hair down. Increases curl when diffused in hair. How to use it: Work a small dab of product into your palms. Apply to dry or damp hair; let air-dry or blow-dry/diffuse hair to get rid of frizz and enhance texture.  Nourishing Oil What’s in it: Avocado oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba seed oil, vitamin E, squalene, sweet orange oil, bergamot oil, cedarwood oil. What it does: Replenishes dry skin and prevents frizz. Repairs dry ends, locks moisture into your skin. How to use it: Massage 1-2 pumps of oil into your hair or beard until fully absorbed. For an added bonus, use on your body after a shower. Eat and drink foods rich in Vitamin C.  Vitamin C is so good for you. It supports your immune system, maintains blood pressure, and improves your memory. But it’s also great for scalp and hair health. Winter hair loves Vitamin C because it counters the effect that cold, dry weather has on our skin. How does Vitamin C keep our hair healthy? Let us count the ways. Helps strengthen our hair and prevent breakage Prevents a dry, itchy scalp by retaining moisture Increases blood circulation which encourages hair growth Fights dandruff  It’s easy - and delicious - to incorporate Vitamin C into your diet. Here are some things that you can eat during the cold months to enjoy the benefits. Winter squash Broccoli, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts Lemons  Tomatoes Spinach and kale Green and red peppers Embrace hairstyles that will protect your hair in the winter. Protective hairstyles do two things: they help retain moisture and protect your hair from breakage due to the cold. These include buns held with non-damaging hair ties and headbands, or braids.  Here are our favorite hairstyles for wintertime that protect and add beauty to your look.  The low, messy bun. There are so many ways to do a low, messy bun. They’re easy, casual, but can also be romantic if you let some wisps fall freely around your face.  Banana bun. The banana bun is also low, but adds a little more texture. It’s low maintenance and stylish. Side braids. For longer hair, side braids keep your strands protected and they add a feminine touch. Sleep in them to add texture and wave to your hair. Braided crowns. Braided crowns are a little more advanced, but they’re fun eye-catchers that you can practice at home. They’re great for a more elegant look, but can also be dressed down to add a fun element to your go-to t-shirt and jeans. French braids. French braids will never go out of style. They can be done on short hair or long hair. You can add one to the side of your head, braid one across your forehead, or go the traditional route.               Keep these tips in mind as you get ready for the winter months. Taking care of your hair is in itself a wonderful form of self-care, an expression of self-love, and an outlet for your creativity.              If you do some mindful maintenance during winter, you won’t be doing damage control come spring.              What do you think? Will you cosy-up with some ANTIDOTE this winter and see if it makes a difference in your scalp and hair health? If you liked this post, check out last year’s winter hair tips here.             Drop us a comment below and tell us about your winter hair regimen!             - Abigail + David

Hopefully you know the feeling of a good scalp massage.  Your skin tingles, you get goosebumps along the back of your neck.  You forget that list of errands.  Problems fade into the background.  Your mind clears.  You are in the moment. I recently had sat down with Abigail Kuehl, master stylist, to talk about the benefits of a good scalp massage.  She’s made the scalp massage part of her guest regimen for over 10 years.  Her technique is legendary among her clients. Is scalp massage good for you? You bet!  Here are just 3 reasons why you should carry this salon practice home.   Scalp massage removes dirt that can clog pores and follicles - things like dead skin, product build-up, and environmental debris Scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles - that means that it creates an environment that promotes hair growth Scalp massage helps create thicker hair by stretching hair follicles "According to research, scalp massage increases hair thickness by stretching the cells of hair follicles. This, in turn, stimulates the follicles to produce thicker hair. It’s also thought that a scalp massage may help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin, thereby encouraging hair growth,"  Healthline. There are 2 main types of scalp massage: dry and wet.   The Dry Massage At the salon, Abigail shared the psychological side of the dry scalp massage, “I like to help my guests make the transition from the busy outside world to the restorative space of the salon, but it’s much more than just about making my guests feel good.”  Kuehl explains that there are physical benefits that come from a good scalp massage too.  “A good massage increases blood flow to support the body’s natural internal cleansing process, and reveals healthy skin cells." "I like to enhance the process with a high quality plant based oil blend, the combination promotes healthy skin and improves hair texture.  My favorite blend is ANTIDOTE 1848 NOURISHING OIL with organic avocado, grape seed, jojoba, and grapefruit oil. These are great for soothing skin and strengthening the hair and this product doesn’t have harsh additives.” Kuehl’s explains her dry massage approach “Step 1: I like to start by brushing the hair in multiple directions to expose the scalp, remove dead skin cells and stimulate circulation.  Step 2: Then I rub a few drops of a good hair oil into my fingers and start taking long strokes across the scalp from back to front and side to side to transfer the oil onto the scalp and hair.  For people with long hair, I also apply hair oil to the ends of their hair.  Step 3: Starting from the forehead and moving to the back of the neck, I use gentle circular motions across the crown and then from the temples.” You can enjoy the benefits of a scalp massage by giving one to yourself. “Find a quiet spot and give yourself 5-10 minutes. Even a couple of days a week can make a difference. Feel free to mix it up – so you don’t have to do the same thing each time. Nature sounds can be fun to use. The National Park Service has some great options.  And don’t forget to take deep slow breaths to make sure you get lots of fresh air!” For a good dry massage, use a high quality nylon and boar bristle brush that works for your hair type. The Wet Massage At home, we recommend a wet massage.  It's easier to do on yourself and the running water will automatically wash away dirt and build-up. For all hair types, a nubby silicone brush works well.  Silicone is best because it doesn't tangle the hair. Step 1: super saturate your hair and scalp to get the best lather from your shampoo  Step 2:  apply the brush against your scalp, moving it around in gentle, circular motions. start in the back and move up the neck to the top of the head Step 3: go from the back of the neck and move up the sides of your head TIP: Don't apply too much pressure -  a little goes a long way - it should feel good. too much pressure can irritate your follicles.  “If you want to get more adventurous, find a scalp massage buddy!  It’s good for you, fun and a great way to improve your technique!” Looking for more tips?  Check out Sandra Roldan's "How to Give Yourself a Salon-Style Scalp Massage - a former shampoo girl shares her secrets."   -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848

With so many natural oils in ANTIDOTE products, we get a lot of questions about how oils work to benefit our scalp, follicles, and hair.  So we wanted to take a minute to pull together the latest research and views on the best oils for healthy scalp and beautiful hair. Why Use Oil on your Scalp and Hair? Putting oil on your hair may seem counterintuitive, but there are endless benefits to it. Natural oils moisturize and protect. They lubricate the cuticle and prevent breakage and damage. They detangle, nourish, style, and smooth. The best part is, you don’t need to break your bank to start incorporating nourishing oils into your regimen. You can find most of these ingredients at the grocery store.  Whether you add oils to your own recipes, or in your favorite ANTIDOTE products, we know that you will be delighted with the results.  Won’t my hair get greasy? If your scalp produces enough natural oils, brushing your hair every day may be enough to nourish and protect your strands. And some people find that using too much of a heavier oil can make your hair feel greasy.  But if your hair is dry, chemically treated, damaged, or if you wash your hair every day, chances are you could use the extra boost of moisture.  Knowing about the best nutrient-rich oils will help you choose one that’s right for you. And because these oils are concentrated, a little goes a long way.  Our superstars are a mix of carrier oils and essential oils. They can be added to existing shampoos and conditioners, combined to make a hair mask, or used lightly on the ends in between washes to style your hair.  Remember to start small and add more if needed to avoid overdoing it.  Before we go into each one in detail, we've listed the best oils for hair and scalp health here: Rosemary Essential Oil Grapefruit Essential Oil Avocado Oil Jojoba Seed Oil Sunflower Oil  Sesame Seed Oil Sea Buckthorn Oil Sandalwood Essential Oil Grapeseed Oil Keep reading to learn about the benefits of each oil, who would benefit the most, and how to use them. Rosemary Essential Oil   Rosemary is a type of evergreen shrubbery, originating in the Mediterranean. We use the leaves in cooking. Both the oil and leaves are used to combat inflammation and to aid digestion and brain function.   You'll find rosemary oil in ANTIDOTE Rosemary Detox Shampoo. Here’s what it does for your hair: It naturally purifies your hair and reduces scalp irritation. It’s also considered a great oil for hair growth. Some studies have shown that rosemary oil can reverse some of the most common forms of hair loss, like male pattern baldness and alopecia areata - an autoimmune disorder that usually results in unpredictable, patchy hair loss. Although more research is needed, rosemary hasn’t proven to be effective in reversing hair loss due to chemotherapy, hair pulling, or drug-related hair loss. Who should use it: Anyone concerned with hair loss or wanting to promote hair growth. Anyone suffering from dandruff or a dry scalp. “According to one study , rosemary oil performed as well as minoxidil, a common hair growth treatment, but with less scalp itching as a side effect,” Healthline. How to use it: Add several drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo so that it can be massaged into your scalp while you wash your hair.  Let your shampoo sit on your scalp for 1 minute and rinse. Grapefruit Essential Oil Grapefruit is the accidental lovechild of sweet orange and pomelo, originating in Barbados. Rich in Vitamin C, it’s shown to improve heart health and benefit the immune system. Here’s what it does for your hair: It promotes hair growth while giving your hair a natural shine. Antibacterial and antimicrobial properties clean the scalp, unclog pores, and prevent dandruff.  It also naturally flattens and seals the hair cuticle, making it an excellent detangler.  Antioxidants from the Vitamin C protect the hair and scalp.  Who should use it: If your hair feels dull, or is lacking volume and life, grapefruit oil will help restore shine. It can help control grease for those with thin, oily hair. Anyone with dandruff could benefit from grapefruit oil. How to use it: For a greasy or flaky scalp, add several drops to your shampoo. For protection and detangling, add several drops to your conditioner.  Or create your own mixture by adding several drops to a bottle of carrier oil like avocado or jojoba oil. Apply as a hair mask for a deep condition. Learn more about grapefruit peel oil here.  You'll find grapefruit peel oil in ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo and Ginseng Conditioner. Avocado Oil Avocados come from central Mexico and have been used by people for thousands of years. The Aztecs used the fruit as an aphrodisiac and the Jamaican’s used to refer to them as “alligator pears.” Here’s what it does for your hair: Avocado oil is incredibly rich in nutrients, collagen-supporting amino acids, proteins, and vitamins A, B, D, and E. It also contains oleic acid which allows it to penetrate the hair shaft and truly moisturize from within.  The healthy fats in the oil strengthen the hair shaft and prevent split ends. It promotes hair growth as well.  Who should use it: Avocado oil is relatively light, so it’s ideal for people with fine, straight hair. If your strands tend to run dry, this is a great oil to use for protection from heat damage and preventing split ends. Curly-haired people will find it to be an effective moisturizer well, great for styling curls in between washes. How to use it: Use between washes to touch up curly hair. Or use after showers to style. Apply to ends to keep hair from drying out or breaking. Add several drops to your shampoo to encourage hair growth and thickness.  Use it as a carrier oil and add rosemary or grapefruit essential oil and apply it as a hair mask. See what experts are saying about avocado seed oil here.   You can find avocado oil in ANTIDOTE Avocado Styling Cream and ANTIDOTE Nourishing Oil. Jojoba Seed Oil Jojoba oil isn’t actually an oil. It’s a liquid wax from the seed of the jojoba shrub. In the 18th century, Native Americans ground up the seeds to use as a balm for irritated skin as well as to condition their hair.  Here’s what it does for your hair: Rich in Vitamins C, B, E, copper, and zinc, jojoba strengthens and protects hair while providing deep moisture. It encourages hair growth and thickness, and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the scalp. Who should use it: If your hair is prone to breakage or very dry, jojoba oil is a wonderful aid.  Works wonders for color and chemically treated hair. How to apply: Add a small amount to your conditioner, or buy a natural, safe shampoo that already has jojoba in it.  You can also use it as a hair mask to deep condition dry strands. Or massage a small amount into your scalp to control dandruff and encourage hair growth.  See what others say about Jojoba oil here.  You'll find jojoba in ANTIDOTE Jojoba Conditioner. Sunflower Oil Everybody loves sunflowers.  They are beautiful and give us sunflower seed oil, too!  Sunflower oil is rich in Vitamin A and E, both of which are antioxidants that promote healthy scalp health. Sunflower oil can also aid digestion and the immune system when used in cooking. Here’s what it does for your hair: Sunflower oil nourishes and softens skin and hair. Oleic acid helps hair grow faster and prevents breakage. It also tames frizz and adds a natural shine to your hair. Who should use it: Sunflower oil is a lighter oil, so it’s great for fine, straight hair that tends to be dry or dull. For color or chemically treated hair, it can retain moisture. How to apply: Make a mask by adding a few drops of rosemary essential oil and applying it to the ends and strands of your hair. Let sit for 10 minutes.  Wash out in the shower using cool water.  See what NaturallyCurly says about sunflower oil.  You can find sunflower oil in  Sesame Seed Oil (also known as Gingelly Oil)   Sesame seed is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world. The oil-rich seeds of the sesame plant pack fiber, plant protein, and antioxidants.  Here’s what it does for your hair: Sesame seed oil is antibacterial and antifungal, making it an excellent oil for fighting dandruff. It contains Vitamin E and many other nutrients that support strong, healthy hair. It also protects your hair from sun and environmental damage.  Who should use it: People with irritated scalps, or dandruff. Anyone with color-treated hair can use sesame oil for UV protection.  How to apply: Massage a small amount into your scalp or drop it directly into your shampoo. For long days in the sun, apply a light coat to your strands for protection.  See what Healthline says about sesame oil. You'll also find sesame oil in ANTIDOTE Gingelly Hair Mist. Sea Buckthorn Sea buckthorn is a small shrub that produces berries. The oil is extracted from those berries to be used on the skin or ingested. Sea buckthorn supports the liver, heart, immune system, and does wonders for both your scalp and hair. Here’s what it does for your hair: An incredible nurturing agent, this oil improves blood circulation, fights inflammation, and promotes faster hair growth. Vitamins A and E help to strengthen brittle hair. Antioxidants protect the hair from further damage. Amino acids help repair chemically treated hair.   Who should use it: Sea buckthorn oil is an excellent support for aging hair. Anyone with color-treated hair will also benefit from it’s moisturizing and strengthening properties. How to apply: Apply to the ends of your hair between washes to protect from breakage and to strengthen hair. Or massage a small amount into your scalp to improve blood circulation.  You'll find Sea Buckthorn in ANTIDOTE Buckthorn Styling Clay. Sandalwood Essential Oil Sandalwood oil is extracted by steam distillation of pieces of sandalwood tree. The aroma is earthy, grounding, and loved by many.  Here’s what it does for your hair: Anti-inflammatory properties soothe an irritated scalp. Softens the scalp and helps it to retain moisture. Sandalwood also moisturizes and adds shine to lifeless hair.  Who should use it: Sandalwood is a wonderful oil for all hair types and smells divine. If you struggle with an inflamed scalp or dandruff, sandalwood is a good choice. How to apply: For thick or curly hair, mix with jojoba or sesame seed oil and apply a small amount to the ends of hair between washes to style. Or add several drops into styling cream you already have. Massage what’s left on your hands into your scalp to prevent dandruff and soothe your scalp.  Check out what the Daily Mail has to say about Sandalwood Oil here.   Grape Seed Oil   Grape seed oil is a wonderful alternative to other oils because it’s light-weight and nutrient-rich. It’s made from the byproduct of winemaking. Cheers! Here’s what it does for your hair: Grape seed is rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid, both of which aid a healthy scalp, moisturize and protect from pollutants. If your hair is dry and brittle, grape seed will help you restore shine and strength.  It’s an excellent choice to fight dandruff because of its light weight. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.  Who should use it: Grape seed is great for fine-haired people who are experiencing dandruff or dry, brittle hair. It can also be used to combat baldness  How to apply: Use it between washes to refresh the ends or mix it with a little sandalwood oil and apply as a hair mask for deep conditioning and protection.  See what Healthline says about grape seed oil here.  You will find grape seed oil in ANTIDOTE Nourishing Oil. Whatever oil you choose to incorporate into your hair routine, have fun with it. Most of these oils can be found locally and won’t break the bank. Have fun mixing them to make masks, drop a little bit into your shampoos, and try them on your face too!  Drop us a comment below and let us know what oils are working for you these days! Abigail + David

When you become an ANTIDOTE member, we'll take care of you by sending you: a fresh batch of your favorite ANTIDOTE products before you run out automatic 15% off of every product you subscribe to exclusive product tips and seasonal ideas The ANTIDOTE Membership program came out of a real issue - we had ANTIDOTE users asking us to overnight their favorite products because they ran out.  It's happened to us too.  Busy day ahead, we jump in the shower, and oops, all out of shampoo and conditioner.   With ANTIDOTE's automatic replenishment membership program, you'll never miss a healthy scalp and beautiful hair day again - and you'll save 15%, too! It's super easy to sign up.   When you add your favorite product to your cart, you have the option to sign that product up.  That means that each month, you'll get that product at 15% off, too.  The sign up happens when you click on "place my order". That is how you confirm that your subscription will automatically renew and your credit card will automatically be charged the member's subscription price. Here's an example of where you need to click. Why each month?   Based on using 2 teaspoons every other day, you should get 1.5 months out of your bottle.  Of course, everyone is different. For example, if you have long hair, we recommend shampooing less frequently, but you might need more shampoo each time.  And, if you are like us and use your ANTIDOTE shampoo as a body wash, you'll use a bit more.  Can I change my mind? or change products? Good news is that once you've set up your subscription, you can change it or cancel at any time.  You can access your account either from the ANTIDOTE website or through your confirmation email.  From your account, you'll be able to manage your shipments, skip one, or remove a product from the subscription. Never get caught empty handed again.  Become a member by subscribing to your favorite products, and we'll share product tips. ANTIDOTE - because beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp. - Abigail + David

Whatever "school" looks like for you this year - via ZOOM, at home, or at an actual school - some self-care in the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day.  That includes styled hair.  But, who wants to run a marathon in the morning?  It’s easy to find yourself sprinting for the finish line by 7am. You got this! Getting the kids ready for school on time, properly fed, and prepared with all the necessary supplies is your Mount Everest, everyday. We know and we see you, moms, dads, and guardians.  We know you don’t have time to scour the internet for hairstyle ideas before you even have your morning coffee. Between nutrition and diet, mental health, and holistic parenting strategies, your research time is limited.  But still, your child deserves to look and feel amazing when they start their school work so that they can confidently climb their Mount Everest: growing into a responsible, educated, inspired person.  So we decided to save you a huge step. We scoured the internet for all of the easiest, cutest back to school hairstyles that even dad can master. And we’ve compiled them here for your easy reference.  We’ve separated our hair tutorials into two sections: kids and teens. But a lot of them are interchangeable so be sure to check out both. Back To School Hairstyles For Kids #1: Braided Bow by MetDaan Creative   This call back to Minnie Mouse is absolutely adorable and you’ll think you can’t do it until you see how it’s done. If you can put your child’s hair half up and secure a small braid, you’ve got this! Check out the 17 second tutorial here.  #2: Low Up-Do by Buzzfeed This is a messy bun that looks great with textured hair. Divide the hair into three buns. With each bun, pull the sides together to meet on top and secure with a bobby pin. Easy peasy!  For a visual, click here. #3: Hair-Wrapped Ponytail by Cute Girls Hairstyles If someone’s had a morning meltdown and you’ve lost precious braiding time, don’t fear. The hair-wrapped ponytail is here. Throw it up and you’re off to the races. See the tutorial here.  #4: Half-Up Space Buns by Kyra Lopez This hair-style is great for kids who don’t like having their hair up but still need it out of their face. It’s easy to do and (relatively) tolerable to sit through, as you’ll see in the tutorial. Check it out here. #5: Fishtail braid by HooplaKidz Style Don’t be intimidated by this one. It looks complex, but it doesn’t get much simpler than this. From a low ponytail, divide the hair into two sections. Take a thin sliver of hair from the middle of one section and cross it over the other section. Now take a small sliver of hair from the other section, and do the same thing. Keep going until you’ve reached the ends! Get the full tutorial here.  #6: Criss Cross Ponytail by Back2NaturalGirls and Fynes Designs   This hairstyle looks adorable on little girls and is super easy. The great thing about this hairstyle is you can start from the bottom and work your way to the top, or you can go from top to bottom. Check out this tutorial for a bottom to top version by Back2NaturalGirls and this blog for a top to bottom version by Fynes Designs.  #7: Ponytail Flip by Cute Girls Hairstyles Dads, you’re going to love this one. Gather the hair into a side pony and use a handy tool called the Topsy Tail to flip it! Get the full tutorial here.  #8: Woven Half-Up by Pretty Life Ideas   If you’ve got 60 seconds you can pull this one off. From a half-up/half-down hairstyle, split the top section into two and join one side to a section of hair from the side of the head. Do the same with both sides, then secure your two new sections together in the middle.  Flip the underneath hair through the bottom opening that you’ve created and you’re done! Watch this video for a quick demonstration.   Back To School Hairstyles for Teens #9: Messy Low Bun by Luxy Hair Low, messy buns look great with casual school outfits and they’re a cinch to learn. For this one, gather the hair at the nape of the neck and wrap it around itself. Once secured, tug on the hair a bit to give it texture. If you’re a visual learner, click here for a 17 second tutorial.  #10: Everyday French Twist by A Beautiful Mess   You may trial and error this one at first, but because of it’s loose, messy look, there’s a lot of room for error. The everyday french twist is a beautiful low bun that allows wisps of hair to fly free without compromising the look. All you need is some long locks and a bunch of pins. Get the full tutorial here.  #11: The French Mohawk Braid by Missy Sue   This hairstyle works for short and long hair, keeps your daughters hair out of her face while looking cute. It’s a french braid meets half-up half-down. Get the tutorial here.  #12: Twisted Pigtails by Jenny Erasmus     This hairstyle is so cute on curly-haired girls. It secures everything while also showcasing those beautiful curls. And the best part? It takes 5 minutes.  Part the hair down the middle and divide into two sections. With the first section, twist the hair from the hairline all the way back down to the neck and secure with a hair tie. Repeat with the other side and you’re done! Click here for the full tutorial. #13: Simple Twist Hairdo by Say Yes   This quick riff on half-up half-down looks gorgeous with wavy hair. If you can twist and you have a hair band on hand, you’re good to go. Grabbing a section of hair on the side of the head, split it in two and twist. Do the same on the other side and join the two sections at the back of the head. For a visual demonstration click here.    #14: Easy Top Knot by Extra Petite This bun is “knot” budging, y’all. The longer the hair, the more dramatic and beautiful this look will be. For curly hair, give the hair a gentle tug at the end to add texture. Find out how to do it here.   #15: Front Row Braid by Barefoot Blonde The front row braid requires a teensy bit of technique at the beginning, but after that you’re basically just going to braid the hair down the side and secure it in a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. Click here to get the tutorial.  #16: Double Bun Twist by Annies Forget Me Knots If your child has long locks, these buns are so cute and they look much more complex than they are. Just separate the hair into two sections, twist the entire section inward and wrap it against the head like a cinnamon bun.  #17: Waterfall Braid by Maria Gomez This braid looks so beautiful on all types of hair! It takes a little trial and error, which is why we’ve included at the end. If you’ve come this far, you’ve got this! This braid gives an elegant, cascading look which is why it’s called the waterfall. Click here to watch the tutorial.  Ready, Set, Go! There you go, our favorite 17 back-to-school hairstyles that will make you feel like a pro without actually having to be one. We hope we’ve saved you a little time in the morning to devote to all of the other needs and challenges that come with raising tiny humans. Bookmark this page and let us be your support in all things hair care as your kids navigate the next year of their lives.  Let us know which of these were a hit with your kids, or which ones you had trouble with. We’d love to hear your success stories! Comment below. You got this! Abigail + David

Hard to believe it, but autumn is around the corner!  As hot days give way to cooler nights, summer blossoms fade, leaves start to turn.  Fall flowers like asters start their show, hygrangeas blush, the mushrooms come out.   A new season reminds us that it is time to shake up our hair routine to keep it looking its best.  Don’t worry, we’ve got everything you need to know (and need to have) to keep your hair looking beautiful and feeling healthy. This season brings a specific set of challenges to our locks - breakages, flaky scalps, and sometimes even hair loss. Beautiful autumn hair needs moisturize, the right products, and embracing the change of seasons with a playful attitude. We’ve compiled our favorite fall hair ideas in this guide to make the transition to colder weather no big deal. Are you ready? 6 Tips for Healthy Hair This Fall Give your hair an at-home spa treatment. DIY spa nights just feel good. And your hair will thank you too. Would you believe that you can find everything you need to pamper your strands and scalp in your pantry? First, give your hair a clarifying rinse. This will remove product build-up and all the other things that found their way onto your scalp over the summer. If you use products that contain silicones, then you’ve likely attracted dirt and stubborn residue onto your hair. A clarifying rinse will give your hair a fresh start.  The Recipe: Add a little bit of apple cider vinegar to a small spray bottle of water. Spray your scalp and gently massage. Rinse thoroughly in the shower. Apple cider vinegar is not just great for breaking down product build-up. It’s also anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. If you have a dry, itchy scalp or suffer from dandruff, this is a rinse you’ll want to try. Next, make a DIY hair mask. Now that you’ve removed old residue and your hair is free to breathe and grow easier, work on locking in moisture to keep your hair protected as the cooler months approach. Hair masks will lead to stronger, shinier, hydrated hair. Try this recipe out. Hair Mask For Dry Damaged Hair What you’ll need: 1 spoonful of coconut oil ½ an avocado mashed up Optional: 5 dashes of grapefruit essential oil A shower cap Mix all of the ingredients (sans the shower cap) in a bowl and carefully apply to the length of your hair. Next, massage what’s left on your hands into your scalp. Throw your hair up in the shower cap and let it sit for one hour. Rinse thoroughly with a natural, chemical-free shampoo and follow with a safe conditioner. Why It Works: Coconut oil is super moisturizing for dry hair and will help reduce hair breakage. It fights dandruff and soothes an itchy scalp. Avocado is rich in vitamins and healthy fats that can heal damage to your hair while making it resilient against environmental pollutants. And we can’t help but add grapefruit oil to the mix. It removes product build-up, promotes hair growth, and gives your hair a beautiful shine. Plus it smells delicious! Now that you’ve washed your hair mask off, it’s time to apply a leave-in conditioner. Leave-in conditioners will lock in moisture, making it resilient to breakage. Many natural conditioners will double as a leave-in and won’t weigh your hair down. Bonus tip: Drink a cup of tea and turn on Netflix while the mask sets in for a chill night of pampering yourself. Feeling adventurous?  Find a hair mask recipe that's just right for you.   Stay calm in the face of seasonal hair loss. If you’re someone who experiences more hair loss than normal in the fall, don’t freak out. It’s totally normal to lose a little hair from time to time, especially in the fall!   But some people experience seasonal hair loss, too. There’s much speculation on why this happens, and more research is needed to understand this phenomenon. Whatever the reason, the important thing is not to panic. Added stress won’t be of any help to your hair’s healthy recovery. Keep pampering your hair using this guide and it’ll grow faster and stronger.  Allure magazine's Donna Freydkin and Marci Robin talked with several experts about this who shared, "It is always a good idea to make an extra effort in the winter months to keep the hair hydrated and moisturized. Use a deep conditioning mask. Likewise, limiting heat styling can be helpful for the same reasons." Use natural products that promote sustainable hair growth. Products with silicones, sulfates, and other toxic ingredients give your hair a healthy, shiny look, but in the long run, they dry out your hair and scalp, suffocate your hair follicles, and inhibit growth. The process of finding natural products that both look and are healthy is one that we are so familiar with. Our personal journey of finding the best natural products out there led us to creating the ANTIDOTE Autumn Hair Bundle. This delicious collection of yummy smelling hair products are plant-based, sulfate-free, and used in professional salons around the country. Here’s what’s in it: Ginseng Shampoo What’s in it: Aloe vera, Wisconsin ginseng, coconut oil, vitamin E, citrus and cedarwood oil. What it does: Hydrates and nourishes your hair and scalp. Protects color-treated hair. Gently stimulates hair follicles. Promotes healthy hair growth. How to use it: Brush dry hair before washing. Shake well and massage into wet hair. Rinse. Jojoba Hair Repair Conditioner What’s in it: Jojoba seed oil, shea butter, provitamin B5 and aloe vera. What it does: Repairs dry and damaged hair in less than 10 minutes. Leaves hair soft and smooth without silicones. Locks in moisture. Nourishes hair and scalp. How to use it: Apply to damp hair, comb through and rinse. For deeper conditioning, leave-in for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with cool water to lock in your color. Sandalwood Multi-Styler What’s in it: Aloe vera, sandalwood oil, grapeseed oil, provitamin B5  What it does: Styles your hair without weighing it down. Protects and adds shine to your hair. How to use it: Work a generous amount between palms. Apply to damp hair from the roots all the way to the ends and style. Air dry or blow-dry to add volume. Burdock Root Spray Wax What’s in it: Lemon extract, burdock root extract, sunflower seed extract, apple fruit extract, castor oil. What it does: Adds lasting, weightless volume. Adds texture to dry hair. Resists humidity and controls static. How to use it: Shake well. Hold the container 10 to 12 inches from your hair and spray to secure your style. Spray on towel-dried hair from roots to ends to blow dry. Use on dry hair, shaping with fingers for a loose and tousled look.   Eat plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is a healthy fat that your hair loves (and honestly, the feeling is mutual.) It keeps your scalp moisturized and prevents it from becoming dry and flaky. It has also shown to boost hair growth and prevent hair loss. To see results, be consistent about incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. Add a dash of patience and you’ll be on your way to healthy autumn hair.  Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids: Seafood like salmon, cod, mackerel, and oysters Nuts and seeds like flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts Soy products like tofu, edamame, and soybean sprouts Canola oil Vegetables like brussel sprouts, broccoli, squash, and spinach Brussel sprouts make the perfect autumn treat. Here's our favorite way to prepare them. Invest in a satin or silk pillow. As the weather cools down, your hair will be prone to dryness and breakage. Coats and scarves will rub against your hair, causing friction. Even your cotton pillowcase is harsh on your hair. Silk is a natural fiber that is gentle on the hair but doesn’t soak up moisture or product that your hair needs. Satin is very similar and a little more affordable, making it a great second option. Satin or silk pillowcases will also preserve your style and minimize frizz, allowing you to wash your hair less. That means your hair has more time to produce beneficial oils. Celebrate the changing of seasons with a new hairstyle. Autumn is a time of change. Embrace it by trying a new hairstyle, or just make some simple changes that will have you feeling refreshed inside and out. Here are some of our favorite fall hair ideas. Try one or all of them! Bob haircuts are in right now and there are so many different styles to choose from. They’re low maintenance and they look great with messy bangs, short bangs, or none at all. Whether you have long or short hair, you can rock it Finger waves. Embrace your inner flapper and try out some “S” shaped waves to complement your petticoat. Finger waves can be done up or down on long or short hair. They can be sharp and defined or loose and soft. Curtain bangs. Curtain bangs call us back to the 70s. They’re simple, elegant, and perfect for fall. These bangs are typically longer and are parted down the middle. Having Healthy Hair Is a Lifestyle For us, beautiful hair is a way of life. We know that a healthy scalp means beautiful, strong hair and that the choices we make in our overall health impact our hair too. It’s so important to take time to give yourself and your hair some TLC. Tending to your hair with natural, sustainable practices is an act of self-love. And it isn’t just about the shampoo you use. Our best practices this autumn include a comprehensive approach. That means being mindful of our internal and our external environment at the same time. Embrace the season. While days get shorter, autumn is a great time to hike, wander around your neighborhood, or drive to a great look out spot to admire the colors changing in the trees. Check out our Wisconsin fall activity bucket list here. What are your favorite things to do where you live?   There are so many tips out there and so many products to choose from. Don’t bite off more than you can chew, or you may end up abandoning the entire thing. Find a regimen that not only feels doable for you, but also feels nurturing. Did we miss something? What is your favorite thing to do with your hair in autumn? Is there something that you’ve wanted to try forever but haven’t.  Drop us a comment below. We’d love to hear from you! Abigail + David

October 12 is National Indigenous People's Day and August 9th, 2020 was World Indigenous People’s Day.  We celebrate both days by learning more about the history of the Indigenous People residing in Wisconsin.   We love our home state of Wisconsin, and we feel blessed to be surrounded by such a rich Indigenous culture. Learning the history of our state has only informed how we look to the future. The inspiring wall-sized mural above is by artist Matika Wilbur, completed here in Appleton, WI. Both our mission and ingredients are inspired by Native American culture - specifically, amazing Native work to protect the environment and traditional healing practices that harness the power of plants.   The International Day of the World’s Indigenous People was created in 1994 in order to celebrate the richness of indigenous cultures and raise awareness of the threat that Indigenous communities face.  According to the UN, there are about 370 million indigenous people in the world.  The more we understand Native cultures, we find that their traditions and values are rooted in respect for natural resources.  Unfortunately, Native history has too often been over-written or ignored. There are 11 federally recognized tribal nations in Wisconsin, today. They are: Bad River Band of Lake Superior of Chippew Forest County Potawatomi Ho-Chunk Nation Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Mole Lake (Sokaogon Chippewa Community) Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians Brothertown Indian Nation ANTIDOTE offices sit on the ancestral lands of the Menominee Nation. They’re the oldest Wisconsin residents, dating back 10,000 years. Why We’re Inspired By the Menominee 1) The Menominee have a long history of environmental and cultural activism.  In the 1950s, they organized a grassroots movement in response to the Menominee Termination Act, which sought to take their land and erase their identity. This violation was a part of a larger attempt by the US government to assimilate Indian people into an agrarian society.  The Menominee lost land and faced severe hardship. But in 1973 the tribe won back their sovereignty with the Menominee Restoration Act. This was a historic moment that paved the way for other indigenous peoples rights, undermining the US government’s attempts to assimilate other indigenous tribes.  2)The Menominee know their land and they take good care of it. The Menominee Indian Reservation is just 60 miles east of the origin of the tribe: the mouth of the Menominee River. The land is brimming with lakes, rivers, streams, and tons of forest housing animal life.  They practice sustained yield forest management. This means that they protect the forest by ensuring that the amount of trees removed equals the growth.  It is striking to see the impact that their sustainable development has on the planet.  In satellite photos, the Reservation looks like a giant green space surrounded by developments. 3) The Menominee have preserved their language against all odds. 65 Native American languages have been lost and 75 are endangered today. When the US was attempting to assimilate Native American people, English-speaking education systems were violently imposed, while Native-systems were eradicated. Today there is some funding allocated for revitalizing Native languages, but it’s so sparse that tribes are forced to compete with each other for that funding. The Menominee language is among the endangered Native languages, and the tribe has assembled a committee to preserve the Menominee language and culture. The committee holds language classes for people of all ages and has worked with the University of Wisconsin-Madison to document the history of the language. 4) Native American healing practices inspire our ingredients. We use ingredients that are safe for the environment, safe for our bodies, and inspired by Native American medicinal practices. Here are some of our favorite ingredients and why they’re so amazing. Wisconsin Ginseng: Used medicinally as a health tonic, we love Wisconsin Ginseng for its ability to both soothe and stimulate the scalp. Native Americans introduced Wisconsin Ginseng to settlers in the early 1700s. Today, Wisconsin grows 80% of America’s crop.  Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil has been used for skin ailments by Native people, but it’s also used as a symbol of courage. We love this take on the sunflower and use it to add shine and moisture to our hairspray.  Cranberries: Native American medicine uses the acidity in cranberries to fight infection. Cranberries soothe scalp and unclog pores, while the proteins and vitamins add shine.  Rosemary: Rosemary has been revered for its medicinal uses and Native Americans have used it for its ability to aid stomach and liver problems, as well as heal sore joints. Rosemary also has a purifying effect on hair, and is great for removing product build-up. Burdock Root: Used medicinally as a blood cleanser and skin soother, the vitamins in burdock root strengthen your hair while preventing a dry, itchy scalp.  Sweet Grass is a cool-season grass that spreads easily by rhizome to form a patch. Known for its aromatic vanilla-scented leaves, it was used in indigenous North American ceremonies to attract good spirits. Examples of What Can We Learn From Indigenous Culture? “In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations.” -Iroquois Maxim, (circa 1700-1800)    It’s important to remember that we are all interconnected. This is the principle that informs our approach to hair care, but it’s also the principle that informs our approach to the Earth.  Indigenous communities all over the world are masters of living in balance with their environment. Studies have shown that the Amazon has flourished from Indigenous presence.  Can we say the same for ourselves? What kinds of changes would we need to make in our lives to have this type of relationship to our environment? Indigenous communities can teach us about morals and conservation. In the US, Native people are often on the front lines of environmental activism. We are inspired by the work of the Amah Mutsen Land Trust.   We can look to Native culture to understand how to protect nature when we feel it’s being threatened.  How Can We Support Indigenous People? There are many ways to support Indigenous people and help to protect their communities. Here are some ways you can act now. Learn the history of Indigenous people in your city and state. Knowledge is power, and history will repeat itself if it’s not fully understood. Becoming aware of the history of where you live will change your relationship to it, and you’ll be able to pass on that information to others.  If you are interested in American history, check out one of our favorite books, Forgotten Founders. Visit The National Congress of American Indians’ website. The NCAI is a non-profit that organizes around national issues that impact the welfare and sovereignty of Indigenous people. You can become a member, find educational resources on their website, or find instruction on how to contact your local representatives about issues that affect Native communities.  Buy Native products. Support communities directly by buying artwork, jewelry, or clothing. Click here for a directory of Native-owned retailers. Donate to the Native American Rights Fund. NARF is a nonprofit that advocates for Native American human rights, protects tribal natural resources, and develops Indian law to educate the public. You can donate online here.  Wisconsin is an amazing part of the world, and we feel blessed to be surrounded by rich Indigenous culture. Learning the history of Native culture has informed how we look to the future.  How will you celebrate World Indigenous People’s Day? Have you learned anything about your hometown that changed the way you see it? We’d love to hear from you! Comment below or send us a note! Abigail + David  

Go ahead and embrace your hair color - after all, ANTIDOTE is color safe. If you color your hair, you are not alone.  75% of women and nearly 10% of men enhance their hair color.  Given this, it is no surprise that the #1 question that we get is whether ANTIDOTE products are color safe.  Yes!  ANTIDOTE 1848 shampoos, conditioners, and styling products are all color safe.  Whether you do your own color or use a professional stylist (which we highly recommend), you want your hair to look amazing for as long as possible. The #1 way to keep your color as fresh as the day it was colored is to not touch it.  That is, don’t wash it, don’t style it, and don’t go outside.  But that's not practical, so, what's one to do? We talked to professional stylists for their advice on how to take care of color treated hair.  We heard that to minimize shampooing, avoid excessive sun exposure, limit heat treatments, and use cooler water.   In terms of product use, they all agreed on 3 steps: minimize your shampoo usage and use shampoos with gentle cleansers (sulfate-free) be sure to close the hair cuticle with a quality conditioner (and rinse with cool water) use styling products that protect, especially from UV rays (look for natural oils like shea butter and jojoba, and vitamins like provitamin B5 and vitamin E) To understand this advice, it helps to understand how hair color works.  HowStuffWorks explains that hair color involves 3 steps: opening the hair cuticle changing the color closing the hair cuticle to lock in the new color. Each strand of hair is made up of an outer cuticle, a middle cortex, and sometimes an inner medulla. The cuticle provides protection via a shingle like structure.  The cortex - the thickest part of the hair - holds the hair’s color, shape, and texture.  The first step in coloring involves opening up the cuticle so that the color or melanin in the cortex can be lifted out or lightened and the new color can be deposited in.  The final critical step in color involves closing the cuticle to seal in the new color.  In general, water and soaps open the cuticle and conditioning oils close the cuticle.  Professionals recommend avoiding harsh detergents like Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (which unfortunately are used in most traditional shampoos). These ingredients were originally developed to de-grease industrial pipes and strip all dirt and oil from the hair. In addition to leaving a squeaky clean feeling, they expose the cortex which accelerates the loss of hair color. Natural shampoos that don’t use SLS as their cleanser gently remove dirt and oil. Non-SLS shampoos expose less of the cortex, therefore less color is lost.  Note that washing with water alone also opens the cuticle, too. The use of a quality conditioner with healthful oils like coconut, jojoba, castor, and sunflower oil close the cuticle and protect the middle cortex. Styling products that contain Vitamin B5 and E provide protection from oxidation. Considering hair coloring? Beauty expert Julyne Derrick from Birdie says, "We always recommend getting a hair color consult with a professional ... Bring pictures along of hair you like or want to achieve. .. be sure to mention any other hair processing you've had done." Go ahead, color away. ANTIDOTE’s got your back with gentle coconut cleansers, nourishing conditioning oils, and anti-oxidant rich stylers. Looking for a one stop shop?  Try ANTIDOTE's Color Treated Bundle.    

During these stressful times, we are eating more as a way to soothe ourselves.  So we thought, how can we "feed" our hair at the same time?  Well, here's how and some of the choices might surprise you! A friend sent us this wonderful article reminding us that “we are what we eat.”  What are your favorite hair healthy recipes? In her article “What to eat for healthy hair”, nutritional therapist Jo Lewin explains that “Just like skin, the condition of your hair is an outward sign of inside health. The cells that make up each strand of hair require a regular supply of key nutrients.” Proteins crucial to make hair that is strong and healthy. “Choose chicken, turkey, fish, dairy products and eggs as excellent sources of protein along with vegetarian sources such as legumes and nuts.”  Iron and Vitamin C are essential to feed hair follicles.  "Red meat, chicken and fish provide iron with a high bioavailability. Vegetarians can raise their iron stores by including lentils, spinach and other leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, kale and salad greens...  The best sources [of Vitamin C] are blackcurrants, blueberries, broccoli, guava, kiwi fruits, oranges, papaya, strawberries and sweet potatoes. Vitamin C helps in the production of collagen that strengthens the capillaries that supply the hair shafts.” Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin A keep our scalp and hair hydrated. For Omega-3’s Jo suggests, “oily fish such as salmon, herring, sardines, trout and mackerel and plant sources including avocado, pumpkin seeds and walnuts.”  For Vitamin A, try “carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes.” Zinc and selenium and vitamin Eto protect your scalp and hair. “Nuts are nutritional powerhouses, providing zinc and selenium as well as vitamin E.” See Jo Lewin’s complete article here. Now that’s a lot to chew on. Happy eating! Looking for other summer hair care tips?  Check out this blog post here.   -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848

We are proud to welcome Dr. Shamila Gupta Rawal to the ANTIDOTE family!  One of the best parts of being part of ANTIDOTE is connecting with people who share our passion for personal care, self-confidence, and vitality.  She recently shared with us, “I am a strong believer in tapping into nature’s bounty to heal our bodies, both externally and internally.  I practice medicine from a holistic approach and strive to empower my patients to take a leadership role in their own rejuvenation process.”  Shamila is a heavyweight -  a board-certified otolaryngologist/head and neck surgeon, specializing in the management of hair loss and rejuvenation of the face and neck at The Rawal Institute for Hair Restoration and Aesthetic Medicine. She’s the only hair restoration surgeon providing comprehensive surgical and non-surgical treatment for all types of hair loss in Madison, Wisconsin. We had a chance to hang out with her recently and here’s some of what she had to say. Describe your approach to health (for you and your clients)?  I practice medicine from a holistic approach and strive to empower my patients to take a leadership role in their own hair restoration and skin rejuvenation process.  Everything I do at The Rawal Institute is a slow, continuous partnership, driven by my patient’s goals and desires, but informed at every step by a thorough education by myself and my staff.  Why do you use ANTIDOTE products?  I have my own medical-grade skincare line which is produced from all natural, plant-based ingredients and is rich in antioxidants, stem cell boosters, and skin barrier repair agents, to prevent, repair and protect the skin from environmental and stress-induced damage.  ANTIDOTE products are made with a similar philosophy and ingredients, so they are a natural complement to the vision we have here at The Rawal Institute.  The best part of ANTIDOTE products are the absence of harsh chemicals, the fact that they are customizable to a variety of hair types and scalp conditions, and honestly, my hair smells and feels so great after using them.   What is your favorite ANTIDOTE product?  My favorite ANTIDOTE products are the Rosemary Shampoo and also the Jojoba Conditioner!.  The Rosemary Shampoo is an excellent clarifying shampoo, with apple cider vinegar, that helps promote strength in hair growth.  For my patients who suffer from hair thinning or loss, and even the ones on whom I have performed a hair transplant, it is an excellent shampoo to boost health and wellness of the follicles.   Favorite hair or wellness tip this season? My favorite tip for both hair and wellness is: LOVE being who you are and be grateful for the health you have.  I love helping my patients reach their goals of optimizing their skin and hair health, but I do so within the constraints of what is naturally theirs.  I don’t do the “freeze face” or anything phony.  I want my patients to leave feeling like the best version of themselves.  My practice motto is:  You…refreshed. How did you get into the industry? I am a Board-Certified Otolaryngologist/Head and Neck Surgeon with advanced training in facial aesthetics and hair restoration.  At my practice, The Rawal Institute for Hair Restoration and Aesthetic Medicine, I have many patients asking for my recommendations for products to enhance their hair growth and reverse skin aging as complements to the various procedural treatments I offer.  Your favorite vegetable is… Ooh, this is a hard one, because I love ALL of them!  If I really had to choose, I would say zucchini.  It is such a versatile veggie: grill it, sauté it, make zoodles out of it, and my favorite-bake it into a cake!! Learn more about Shamila here.

We’re passionate about small business and hope that you are, too.  “Small susinesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy: they create two-thirds of net new jobs and drive U.S. innovation and competitiveness. A new report shows that they account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity,” according to the US Small Business Administration. By buying from family farms like the ginseng farmers in Marathon County, Wisconsin, sourcing ingredients that are fairly traded and sustainably sourced, and working with smaller suppliers, ANTIDOTE supports small businesses every day.   If we had to chose one favorite small business, it would be the boutique salon.  It is at the heart of all we do.   Every ANTIDOTE product is pressure tested in the boutique salon and designed to provide stylists a healthier alternative for their guests and themselves. Boutique salons matter. Many times they are the first businesses in a community and are meeting places where people exchange ideas, and they attract other businesses. "Small, locally owned businesses and startups tend to generate higher incomes for people in a community than big, non-local firms, which can actually depress local economies," said Stephan Goetz, Ph.D., professor of agricultural and regional economics at Penn State and director of the Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development. What do we love most about small business? Innovation is fun! If there were one thing that excites us about being a small business is the level of innovation that we can bring to our customers.   We can invest in new and interesting products.  We can take time to listen to your feedback without a quarterly profit target or investors looking for a fast return.  Our small batch processing means that we can make adjustments quickly.   Innovation makes small businesses exciting. That’s why people want to work with small businesses.  When you work with a small business, your efforts have a direct impact on the path of the company.  We’ve been inspired by how many people connected with us on the theme of “sustainable hair care that works.”  It takes a village to pull a start up off, and we believe that innovation attracts talent. Jobs for everyone More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create the majority of new jobs in the U.S. each year. We are excited that small business means jobs for underrepresented groups.  Women, people of color, and other minorities rock the small business realm.  In contrast, minorities make up a small percentage of big corporate leadership.  What's up with that?   A small business allows everyone to make a difference, to be their own boss.  As a small business ourselves, we look for people with talent,  smarts, and hustle -  not necessarily degrees or contacts.  We love that we get to work with so many different types of people.  Each person brings a unique set of experiences. Everyone that works on ANTIDOTE makes us stronger. Mission impact As a small business, we can give back to our communities in a direct and personal way.  At ANTIDOTE, recent examples include a program with Boys and Girls Clubs called “Women in Science, Wetlands, and Beauty” where girls got to meet women in biology, conservation, and, of course, the beauty industry.  They talked about their careers and how they are all linked.  We recently worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters on “How make your own Shampoo” self-esteem project that involved professional stylists.  Little sisters got to make their own shampoo, name it, and create an ad for it.  Afterward, professional stylists gave each “little” a make-over.   Goetz said the best way to promote economic growth may be encouraging local businesses.  "We can't look outside of the community for our economic salvation." Goetz said. "The best strategy is to help people start new businesses and firms locally and help them grow and be successful." About 6.5 million new businesses are started in the United States each year, that’s the majority of new jobs. Local businesses have a global impact.  In recognition of the impact of small business on the global economy, the United Nations declared June 27 World Small Business Day.     Are you or someone you know looking to start a business?  Entrepreneur magazine's Peter Daisyme shares great resources here.    

It's summertime again, and here at ANTIDOTE we're itching to get out and soak up the sun as much as possible. Are you feeling that too? Remember that your hair needs protection this season just like your skin does. Beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp, so don't forget that your scalp is skin.   Sometimes it can be hard to know what products to buy. There are so many options out there; how do we avoid buying the ones that end up doing more damage than good? How do we find natural products that are effective as well? This is the very question that led us to where we are today. And we've compiled our top 5 healthy hair tips to give you shining, hydrated hair all summer long.  The Best Tips for Healthy Hair This Summer Follow these tips to ensure that your hair is clean, beautiful, healthy, and moisturized this summer without having to resort to toxic products. 1) Get a good leave-in conditioner. Yes, summer hair requires this. You're going to be more susceptible to dryness from head to toe, and your hair is no exception. What does leave-in conditioner do? It detangles, provides extra hydration during the hot months, and it helps to guard against sun damage and outdoor pollution. Here's how to use your leave-in conditioner: apply it to the mid-length and ends of your hair when your hair is damp. Avoid the roots, especially if you have thin hair. If you must brush, use a wide-tooth comb. Let your hair air dry or style however you'd like.  Not sure where to start, try ANTIDOTE Avocado Styling Cream. Be sure to use your leave-in conditioner after you shower and after you've gone for a swim. Choosing the right leave-in conditioner is so important! If you don't do a little research, you could risk doing more damage to your hair than good. First, figure out your hair type. Ask yourself: Is my hair oily or dry? Is my hair fine or thick? Is my hair damaged? Do I use a lot of heat styling tools? Is my hair straight, wavy, or curly? Is my hair color-treated? If you have thin hair, you'll want to look for a lightweight conditioner. If you have curly hair that needs a lot of encouragement, you may go with a heavier leave-in. Pay attention to the labels and find a conditioner that's made for your hair type.  For example, at ANTIDOTE we formulated Ginseng for moisture, Baobab protein to add strength, Jojoba for dry and damaged hair, Chamomile for sensitive skin. Second, you'll want to know which ingredients are safe and which are unsafe. The safe ingredients are typically the ones with familiar names, and the unsafe ones usually look like they came out of a chemistry lab. Look out for these ingredients for moisture, protection, and safety. Aloe Vera Wisconsin Ginseng Baobab Protein Shea Butter Jojoba Oil Grapefruit Oil Vitamin E And steer clear of these ingredients when shopping for a conditioner. Sulfates Parabens Silicones Isopropyl Alcohol Polyethelyne Glycol Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine If you want to be ready for the summer right now, click here to check out our plant-based summer hair bundle featuring clean, safe ingredients. You'll get shampoo, a conditioner that doubles as a leave-in, UV hair protection, and a natural styling cream. 2) Get overnight heatless curls. Heat damage undermines your curl pattern, and your hair is more susceptible to this in the summer. Embracing heatless curls will help you cut back on your hair-dryer use. There are tons of ways to get overnight heatless curls. Here are a few of our favorite methods. For loose, soft waves, sleep in a low, loose bun on a silk pillowcase  Gather your hair at the nape of your neck Twist your hair and secure it to your head with a no-crease hair tie Pro-tip: David Mallett told the NY times to give your bun a little steam by showering before bed. For curling up already wavy hair, try hair plopping  Work a little product into your damp hair Lay a microfiber towel on the floor in front of you Lower your hair onto the towel and wrap it around your head like a turban Leave for twenty minutes, or leave overnight Pro-tip: Don't have a microfiber towel? A cotton t-shirt will do just fine. Lay it on the floor, plop your hair down, and tie the sleeves together around your head.   For heatless curls for short hair, try pin curls. Run a little product through your damp hair Take one section at a time, as small or large as you'd like Curl the section of hair until it lays flat against your head Secure it to your head with two bobby pins Leave until dry, or overnight Remove the bobby pins and brush with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb Pro-tip: Start at the hairline and work your way to the back of your head so you can see what you're doing. 3) Protect your hair from the elements. As with skin, the best way to prevent sun damage is to stay out of it. Hair follicles are affected by the sun just like our skin is. If you have color-treated hair, this is even more important because the sun can cause your color to fade. Chlorine and salt-water can also damage your hair. Chlorine is a chemical that strips your hair of its natural oils, leaving you even more vulnerable to sun damage. Salt-water leaves your hair dry and brittle. To protect your hair from the sun, follow these guidelines. Wear a hat when you can. The floppier, the better. Use a natural leave-in conditioner to moisturize and protect your hair. Find safe products with natural UV protection. Make a DIY sunscreen by combining coconut oil, rosewater, and a little zinc oxide powder and apply on long, sunny days. Don’t wash your hair as much. Your hair's natural oils provide natural protection from the sun, and when you wash, you strip away those oils. To keep from looking like a total grease ball, use a dry shampoo in between washes. To protect your hair from chlorine and salt-water, follow these guidelines. Rinse your hair before swimming. Dry hair will absorb more chlorine; so  getting it wet before you dip in will actually prevent damage. Coat your hair with a protective oil like jojoba seed oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil. After swimming, mix a little apple cider vinegar with water to rinse your hair with. Apple Cider Vinegar is a wonderful detoxifier, detangler, and clarifier. If you're prone to dandruff, it will also help to keep your scalp from flaking up post-swim. 4) Eat A Healthy Diet It's no secret that a nutrient-dense diet is essential to beautiful, healthy hair and skin. The right nutrients encourage hair growth, increase shine, prevent dandruff, and set the stage for a healthy scalp. Look for foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, and niacin. Also look for minerals like folic acid, iron, and zinc. The Best Foods For Healthy Hair This summer, incorporate these hair-loving foods into your diet.  Eggs Fatty Fish Avocados Spinach Berries Nuts and Flaxseed Algae 5) Cut Your Hair What better season than summer time to give it a chop? Even if it's just a trim, be sure to visit your stylist often this summer. Removing damaged hair will keep your hair looking and feeling healthy, and if you have a lot of it, this is a great time to give it a chance to start over. Short hairstyles like the bob, the pixie cut, and the shag are trendy this summer. If you have a lot of heat damage and you've been thinking you need to hit the reset button, now is the time. If you're in love with your long locks, be sure to tend to them by giving them a trim or two this season. You'll see the results immediately. By getting rid of damaged hair, you leave room for new, healthy growth. Now you have everything you need to keep your hair healthy and beautiful this summer. Don't forget to wear your hat and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. If you liked these tips, click here to check out what experts told us last summer. Now we'd like to hear from you. What are your summer must-have products and practices? Comment below! Abigail + David Check out last year's summer hair tips:  

What's your favorite Juneteenth food? Our current is Mashama Bailey's Pecan Pesto recently shared in the New York Times 1 small clove of garlic 1 cup fresh basil leaves (use whatever you can find) 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves 1 cup fresh opal basil leaves 1/2 cup toasted pecans 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan or pecorino romano (optional)   Directions: pulse garlic in a food processor to break it into smaller pieces add basil and pecans to the processor - start running the machine while you slowly add the olive oil. mix until mostly smooth move pesto to a bowl and stir in cheese season to taste with salt Mashama Bailey is the celebrated executive chef and co-owner of The Grey restaurant. You can learn more about her on Netflix's "The Chef's Table." Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19th.  It marks the day when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger declared the enslaved people of Texas free.  “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.” —General Orders, Number 3; Headquarters District of Texas, Galveston, June 19, 1865

As we get ready for Father’s Day, we were recently inspired by Sara Bindi’s “Honoring Dad This Year? Keep it Simple.”  Sometimes the most powerful gifts are right in front of us.  In this case, right on the sides of our heads – our ears!  Taking time this Father’s Day to get to know Dad better by asking questions and listening is a really cool thing. Sara suggests several options – she calls a more serious approach a “story telling project.”   This involves questions like “what was your childhood home like”, “what toys did you play with”, “why did you join the Navy”, … And this project can go on well beyond Father’s Day.  Sara shared that writer Bruce Feiler of “Council of Dads” got to know his own dad through one question per week.  The project lasted for seven years. “For a more playful approach, rope in the whole family and get to know your father through trivia.  Have him team up with a family member to create a quiz about his life. Bring out some snacks and make a game night out of it”, Sara suggests.  This can even work remotely using Zoom. Another easy idea, is to use icebreakers to get the conversation going.  Everyone can participate, but make sure that Dad gets to answer!  Here are some of our favorite icebreakers from icebreaker.ws. If you could have an endless supply of any food, what would you get? If you were an animal, what would you be and why? What is one goal you’d like to accomplish during your lifetime? When you were little, who was your favorite super hero and why? Who is your hero? (a parent, a celebrity, an influential person in one’s life) What’s your favorite thing to do in the summer? If they made a movie of your life, what would it be about and which actor would you want to play you? If you could visit any place in the world, where would you choose to go and why What’s the ideal dream job for you? Are you a morning or night person? What are your favorite hobbies? How did you get into your career?  How will you celebrate Father Day’s this year? - Abigail + David  

It's happened to us all.  Busy day ahead, you jump in the shower, and oops, all out of shampoo and conditioner.   With ANTIDOTE's subscription program, you'll never miss a healthy scalp and beautiful hair day again - and you'll save 15%, too! It's super easy to sign up and you can make adjustments or cancel at any time.  When you add a product to your cart, you have the option to sign that product up.  That means that each month, you'll get that product at 15% off.   The sign up happens when you click on "place my order". That is how you confirm that your subscription will automatically renew and your credit card will automatically be charged the subscription price. Why each month?  Based on using 2 teaspoons every other day, you should get 1.5 months out of your bottle.  Of course, everyone is different. For example, if you have long hair, we recommend shampooing less frequently, but you might need more shampoo each time.  And, if you are like us and use your ANTIDOTE shampoo as a body wash, you'll use a bit more.  Good news is that once you've set up your subscription, you can change it or cancel at any time.  You can access your account either from the ANTIDOTE website or through your confirmation email.  From your account, you'll be able to manage your shipments, skip one, or remove a product from the subscription. Never get caught empty handed again.  Subscribe and save! ANTIDOTE - because beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp. - Abigail + David

Summer should be a time to gather with family and friends, for cookouts and campfires.  Instead, too many people are hurting right now.  Like so many of you that we’ve spoken with, we are heartbroken and angry.  We are struggling to understand the structural racism and police brutality that led to the recent murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery.  We are trying to process the use of violence against peaceful protestors and the senseless destruction of black businesses. We stand with those impacted the most.   It is inspiring to see so many people showing support for black family, friends, and neighbors, and calling on our government for justice and accountability.  It is so important to encourage civil rights leaders calling for peaceful protest, dialogue, and meaningful action, and to show respect and support for the good cops who work every day to protect and serve.  Being silent is not an option. Thank you for speaking out when you see hatred and for recognizing the harm that bigotry does to our communities.  "Do not stand by while your neighbor's blood is shed.” - Leviticus.  Civil rights leader John Lewis returned to Wisconsin a few years ago to celebrate the Freedom Riders.  While he was here, he talked about the importance of “going out into the world to make trouble, good trouble. That’s the kind of trouble that does good.“  It’s time to join Congressman Lewis in making good trouble.   There’s a lot we can do:  educate ourselves, reach out to friends and neighbors, and be visible.  Take time to learn about structural racism, white privilege, and racial bias. Two recommendations that we've found really powerful include “I Am Not Your Negro,” a 2016 documentary film directed by Raoul Peck, based on James Baldwin's unfinished manuscript.  Another recent favorite is Nikole Hannah-Jones Pulitzer Prize winning podcast “The 1619 Project,” a groundbreaking exploration of the legacy of Black Americans starting with the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619.  What are your favorite sources? Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors most affected by this.  Check in to see if they are ok.  Let them know you are thinking of them. Listen. Be visible.  Ask your elected officials what they are doing to address structural racism and police brutality.  Vote for candidates that have a plan to work on this.  Like a post supporting the cause. Join a peaceful protest.  Join your local chapter of Showing up for Racial Justice (we are members – our chapter has great training).  Part of being visible is giving back.   With Junetenth coming up, ANTIDOTE will donate all profits from sales on June 17-19th to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.  We’re proud to join with NAACP as they fight racial injustice through legal action, education, and more inclusivity in judicial appointments.   Looking for more ideas?  Check out Corrine Shutack's "75 things white people can do for racial justice." Some day in the future, our children will ask what difference did we make?  What did we do to make things better? Let’s give our kids something to be proud of.  It's been great to hear from so many of you.  Keep on sharing your thoughts!  Stay well. - Abigail + David